The Spring/Summer Basics
My non-negotiables.
Basics are the backbone of how I get dressed. My wardrobe is minimalistic but I’m intentional about what I own and I don’t hold onto things that aren’t earning their place but that doesn’t mean it’s boring. There’s color in there, there’s personality, there are pieces with a bit of flare. But the core is the the basics. A great tank. A shirt that fits perfectly.
Finding the right version of each one takes time. I’ve bought and returned and donated more “basics” than I can count, lots of pieces that looked right on a hanger and felt wrong when I put it on, or fell apart after three washes, or just never quite earned their drawer space.
There are a few things I’m always evaluating:
Fit: proportion is everything. Where it sits on the shoulder, how it falls on the body, whether it works tucked or untucked. A basic that doesn’t fit right isn’t actually a basic, it’s just something you own and never wear.
Fabric: natural fibers only. Cotton, linen, silk. Anything else doesn’t breathe, doesn’t age well, and doesn’t feel good in heat.
Longevity: I want to be wearing this in three years. If I can’t confidently say that, it doesn’t make the cut.
My must haves
1. The Crisp Shirt - Wear it open over a tank, buttoned up tucked into a pant, or tied at the waist with shorts. A subtle stripe is the one print I’d always choose.
The Striped Shirts I’d choose:
The Block Color Shirts I’d choose:
2. The Halter Top - Minimal, flattering, and works with almost everything.
A few favs are:
3. The Tailored Elongated Short - The length and the structure are everything with the shorts, it has to hit at the right point on the leg and have enough shape to wear with something other than a sneaker, like some strappy heels.
4. The Lightweight Pant - The elevated alternative to the short.
5.The Tee - Every wardrobe needs the perfect one.
Arguably the best tees in the game are from FloreFlore, I have multiple colors and fits, they are the perfect heavyweight material.
And the Long Sleeve Version
And that’s your spring/summer basics sorted… although I keep thinking this could become a whole series because there’s still so much more to cover. Next up maybe we touch on accessory foundations.
Would love to know what you think.
Happy weekend!
Cass xx